Leopard Corydoras Julii Overview Synonyms None Distribution Peru. Maximum Size 6cm (2.3") Temperature 15-25°C Water Parameters Captive-raised specimens will adapt to a wide range of water conditions, providing that good water quality is maintained. Compatibility Community Lighting No special requirements Sexual Dimorphism Females are significantly larger and appear wider when viewed from above. Males are slimmer and often have an extended dorsal fin. Feeding Catfish pellets, granules, flake and frozen foods DescriptionCare Like all corys, this fish is a small, peaceful, bottom-dwelling catfish that is ideal for mature, softwater community aquaria. Gregarious by nature, Corydoras should be kept in groups of 5 or more; this will not only create a beautiful display, but it will give these sociable, shoaling fish much more confidence to venture out into the open. Like all of its kin, this fish is best kept on a soft sand substrate where it can root around and forage without risk to its barbels which can be damaged by abrasion and bacterial infections from the accumulated waste that often builds up in coarse gravel. Regular maintenance, including frequent partial water changes, should be carried out in order to keep these fish in good condition. Provide some shady retreats amongst bogwood and areas of dense planting, and keep only with small, peaceable tankmates, such as some of the smaller sized characins/cyprinids/anabantoids or dwarf cichlids. Corydoras have the ability to breathe air intestinally, so a small gap should be left between the surface of the water and the cover slides in order for the fish to come up to the surface and take air in. It may do this numerous times per day.Feeding Catfish pellets and other sinking foods are a good staple, with frozen foods such as Cyclops, mosquito larvae and Daphnia a welcome treat.Breeding Mature pairs can be triggered into spawning by performing a large, slightly cooler water change. The pair will adopt the classic "T position” where the male fertilises the eggs that are held between the females pelvic fins. The adhesive eggs will then be deposited onto plants, decor, or the sides of the aquarium etc and the process repeated. The eggs generally take 3-4 days to hatch after which time the tiny fry should be offered finely powdered first foods. A few days later they will be able to take newly hatched brineshrimp. To avoid predation and ensure a higher success rate, many fishkeepers move the parents to another aquarium after the eggs have all been deposited.
